The disaster that unfolded on the night of October 29, 2022, in Itaewon left Korean society in deep shock. It was one of the first large-scale public events to take place following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, including the ban on mass gatherings. Although large crowds were expected to gather in a narrow and confined space, insufficient safety preparations were made in advance. As the disaster began to unfold as many had feared, numerous reports came in. However, appropriate responses by relevant authorities were absent. The number of casualties was on the rise, but rescue measures were not properly implemented. Inadequate preventive and follow-up measures resulted in the loss of 159 souls, leaving numerous victim-survivors facing the grim reality where they are burdened with an unbearable suffering in a vacuum of safety left by the State and society.

Following the Sewol ferry disaster, many institutional reforms were proposed to create a safer society. Yet once again, we are facing the aftermath of another large-scale tragedy. To this day, the full picture of what happened remains unclear. Efforts to assess the scope of the damage and provide proper support to those affected have fallen short. Worse still, there have been deliberate distortions of the truth. Some voices have mocked or vilified bereaved families and survivors. Turning a factual issue into one of ideology has led to social controversy. This shift has allowed malicious falsehoods that reject reason and logic to circulate widely. As a result, the bereaved families and victims are enduring not only grief but continued secondary and tertiary harm, compounding their suffering.

There is a strong and widespread call from the bereaved, survivors, and the public to uncover the causes and timeline of the disaster, assign responsibility with clarity, and reform the systems that allowed this tragedy to occur.

The October 29 Itaewon Disaster Commission will conduct a thorough investigation into the causes and circumstances of the disaster, examine the adequacy of the response by public agencies, determine where responsibility lies, and assess the extent of harm and the effectiveness of current support systems to ensure that the rights of both the bereaved and the affected are fully upheld. We are committed to identifying and fixing structural flaws in Korea’s disaster and safety systems, and to establishing meaningful and enforceable reforms to prevent such tragedies from ever happening again. Through these efforts, we aim to end the social polarization surrounding this tragedy and help rebuild a free and safe society for all.

The Commission remains fully committed to carrying out its responsibilities with diligence and urgency. We stand with the bereaved families and those affected and offer genuine comfort and support. We will speak out against the unjust criticism and hatred directed at the deceased victims and their families and work to restore their dignity. We pledge to help those impacted by the disaster break free from their cycle of pain, hasten their return to daily life, and support them in finding peace and healing.

With unwavering sincerity, determination, and compassion, we pledge to carry out the mission entrusted to this Commission.
We ask for your continued support and encouragement.

Thank you.

September 23, 2024
National Commission for the Investigation of the October 29 Itaewon Disaster and Prevention of Recurrence
Song Ki-Choon, Chairperson